Being Thankful

I am the first to admit why I haven't written in over a month.  I've been lazy.  Completely and utterly lazy. 

Since this is the month when most people go on an on about who and what they're thankful for, I've decided to do the same thing.  Having Nate in my life has changed me in so many different ways.  I am more thankful for the little things each day.  The big things are still super important, but every tiny breakthrough with Nate is something to be thankful for.

These are, in no particular order some important people I am thankful for.

MATT-
      Without him, there would be no Nathan.  Without my rock, I would probably be in some type of asylum right now.  He balances me out, he is strong when I am weak, patient when I am ready to snap.  Matt is calm when I'm freaking out and gives me all the breaks I need from the kids.  He's a wonderful husband and father, and without him I wouldn't be who I am today. 

MY PARENTS and MY IN LAWS-
      Both my parents and Matt's parents are amazing.  They try their best to understand what we are going through and really are hands on when it comes to helping out with Nathan. My mom and dad have been our saviors when it comes to baby-sitters.  We definitely need time to relax and chill away from Nathan, and my parents are always there to watch him when help is needed.  Matt's parents are so great with him as well.  John is always up for taking him for walks and distracting him, while Linda finds awesome things that keep him occupied instead of destroying things!

MY BROTHER, MATT'S BROTHER & BOTH OF MY SISTERS IN-LAW-
      These 4 people have definitely done their homework.  They are always asking for information about Nate, wanting to know what's going on with him and how they can help.  They have been some of our biggest cheerleaders and have really reached out to us in times of need.  They're always looking for that special gift, toy, object that will grab Nate's attention and project him into that next phase of learning.  Steve & Charity's kids have gotten to know Nate, and accept him for who he is, regardless of his quirks.  I know that when the time comes, any future nieces or nephews on my side of the family will do the same.  I am confident that both families will raise their children to be caring and compassionate, and love Nate.

THE KANENGEISER FAMILY-
      My best friend in the entire world is Amie.  Amie and her family have been the friends who have been there for us through thick and thin.  They have been a part of Nathan's life since is birth, and I can't ask for more caring, loving friends in my life.  Amie is always so positive about Nate's future, and I often turn to her for pep talks and to boost my spirits when I'm feeling down.  Their son, Jackson is about 18 months younger than Nate, and is so accepting of Nate's speech issues.  Although Nate can't talk to Jackson, they find a way to have fun, understand each other, and create quite a commotion.  

SURRARRER-
      Nate's school is Surrarrer Elementary, and I am so thankful that out of all of the schools in the district, he is at Surrarrer.  It is such an amazing place, and he really feels at home there.  I have gotten to know the staff and principal, and am confident that he is really getting a great education at his school.  I was so nervous about him switching schools last year because Surrarrer is so much larger than his previous school, but I now realize that I have nothing to worry about.  Nathan is taken care of, and is accomplishing so much thanks to his wonderful teachers.

MR. E.-
      Seriously the one person I trust the most at Surrarrer with Nate.  Alan was Nate's aide during his kindergarten day/extended day, and is with him again this year.  Nathan absolutely loves him and all I have to do is mention his name at home and Nate shapes right up (Alan- Can he come live with you??).  Mr. E. has done so much for Nate- from making his sight words into an awesome Curious George file folder, to being his friend, to showing him the ropes at a school he used to be so unfamiliar with.  It's been great to get to know Alan as a friend, and I'll be really sad the day he decides to leave Surrarrer and move onto his own classroom.

NATE'S MATES-
      Our team for the CASANA Apraxia Walk.  Everyone who has joined our team either by donating, walking, running, or anything else.  I appreciate you.  I appreciate that you want to be there and support my child.  I appreciate that you are willing to take time out of your busy lives to participate in a 1 mile walk or a 5K.  I appreciate the cards, phone calls, emails, and everything else that has gotten me through these past few years.

NATHAN-
     Most of all I am thankful for my wonderful son, Nathan.  He's definitely challenging.  He drives me insane to the point where I don't think I'll make it through the day, but he is my son and I love him.  Nate has taught me so much over the past 7 years, and I am so happy that he is in my life.  I am thankful that he has his health.  I vent about his disability, but I know it could be worse for us.  Nathan, I love you with all my heart.

I'm sure that there are people that I have left off my list and believe me, it's not intentional.  My friends and family have been such a great support system for me.  I am thankful for each and every one of you.